9-Day France Road Trip from Bayonne traveling east to Pau, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, and Bordeaux

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Explore the best of France on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bayonne, Biarritz, Saint Jean De Luz, Pau, Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Carcassonne, Gruissan, Toulouse, Blagnac, Albi, Gaillac, Montauban, Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Arcachon, and Anglet. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Bayonne, 1 night in Pau, 1 night in Carcassonne, 1 night in Toulouse, 1 night in Albi, and 2 nights in Bordeaux. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Bayonne, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Cité De Carcassonne and Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bayonne, Biarritz, Saint Jean De Luz, Pau, Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Carcassonne, Gruissan, Toulouse, Blagnac, Albi, Gaillac, Montauban, Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Arcachon, and Anglet, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.

Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Bayonne - arrival day

  • Bayonne - Arrival day
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Say hello to Bayonne! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the town. You will stay in Bayonne for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Bayonne is a beautiful town with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Château-vieux - Gaztelu Zaharra or taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bayonne. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bayonne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at JANINE, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Victor Hugo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant La Grange. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bayonne.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Dame Jeanne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Café Des Pyrénées is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Kubata & Kukubat provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Bayonne, Biarritz, Saint Jean De Luz, and Pau

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Biarritz
  • Saint-Jean-de-Luz
  • More

Drive 188 km, 3 hours 9 min

  • Rocher de la vierge
  • Biarritz Aquarium
  • Fort du Socoa
  • Le Train de La Rhune
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Biarritz, Saint Jean De Luz, and Bayonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pau. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Bayonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Biarritz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Biarritz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Chambre D'amour Playground. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,662 visitors.

Next, make your way to Rocher De La Vierge. This top attraction is a rock with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,700 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Biarritz Aquarium. This aquarium is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 13,072 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Saint Jean De Luz. This drive usually takes around 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Fort Du Socoa. This fortress is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Saint Jean De Luz, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,851 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pau, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Pau's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Jumo & Co, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pau at Le Garage, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Continue your lively evening at Snug, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Winfield Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Galway ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Pau, Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, and Carcassonne

  • Carcassonne
  • Argelès-Gazost
  • Lourdes
  • Aspin-en-Lavedan
  • More

Drive 308 km, 3 hours 45 min

  • Grottes de Bétharram
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Basilica of St. Pius X
  • funiculaire du pic du Jer
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Lourdes, and Aspin-en-Lavedan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pau and set your GPS to Lourdes. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 35 min. Upon reaching Lourdes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Grottes De Bétharram. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,262 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Lourdes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lourdes. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,163 visitors.

Basilica Of St. Pius X is another popular attraction you could visit today. This minor basilica has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,690 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at La Table de Franck Putelat, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern, and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Rapière is another top choice with a popular menu.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Carcassonne, Narbonne, Gruissan, and Toulouse

  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
  • Gruissan
  • More

Drive 265 km, 3 hours 42 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Réserve Africaine de Sigean
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne, Narbonne, and Gruissan, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Toulouse. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Château Comtal. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.

Cité De Carcassonne is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,968 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Carcassonne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Narbonne may take around 1 hour 1 min. Upon your arrival in Narbonne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Réserve Africaine De Sigean, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 18,879 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Toulouse. Toulouse offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Start your culinary exploration in Toulouse by securing a reservation at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Py-r, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Michel Sarran, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Moloko, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Botanist Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Melting Pot Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Say good night to Toulouse and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Toulouse, Blagnac, and Albi

  • Albi
  • Toulouse
  • Blagnac
  • More

Drive 113 km, 2 hours 10 min

  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Musée Aeroscopia
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Toulouse, and Blagnac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Albi, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Basilica Of St. Sernin, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Place Saint-pierre. Place Saint-pierre is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,139 reviews.

Pont-neuf is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This deck arch bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,845 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Jardin Des Plantes. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,847 visitors.

Set your GPS to Blagnac and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Blagnac beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Musée Aeroscopia. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,683 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Albi, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Albi, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Albi by reserving a table at L'Épicurien. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Albi.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Albi, Gaillac, Montauban, and Bordeaux

  • Bordeaux
  • Albi
  • Gaillac
  • Montauban
  • More

Drive 291 km, 3 hours 34 min

  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • place Nationale
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Albi, Gaillac, and Montauban. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Albi Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,049 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gaillac. This car ride takes around 21 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Parc De Foucaud. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,424 reviews.

Continue your journey at Parc Du Chateau De Foucaud Manège Belle Epoque. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,433 travelers from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bordeaux, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Begin your culinary exploration in Bordeaux by securing a reservation at Ressources. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café Brun after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Le Mushroom Café, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Whose Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Bordeaux, and Lormont

  • Bordeaux
  • Lormont
  • More

Drive 11 km, 1 hour 1 min

  • jardin public
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Cité du Vin
  • More

Greet day 7 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bordeaux for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bordeaux, and Lormont.

Drop by the renowned Jardin Public. This popular urban park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,341 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Monument Aux Girondins. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,483 visitors, this column deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Place De La Bourse. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,251 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Miroir D'eau. This reflecting pool and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,462 local and international travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bordeaux, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lormont. This drive usually takes around 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to La Cité Du Vin. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 21,487 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Soléna, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hôtel De Sèze, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Locadillos, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Grizzly Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Dog And Duck also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Arcachon, and Bayonne

  • Bayonne
  • Bordeaux
  • Le Bouscat
  • Arcachon
  • More

Drive 256 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • parc bordelais
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Porte de Bourgogne
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Arcachon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bayonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Bordeaux Cathedral one of your first sightseeing stops in Bordeaux. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,591 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

The Big Bell Of Bordeaux is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This bell tower is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,871 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Porte De Bourgogne. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,953 visitors.

Journey into the unknown at Parc Bordelais, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,855 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bayonne. Bayonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bayonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kalostrape, a highly-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Verbena Les Halles, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bakera. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Karafe, known for its inviting atmosphere.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Bayonne, and Anglet - departure day

  • Bayonne - Departure day
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bayonne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Bayonne’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bayonne.

Dine in style at Le Bistrot Itsaski, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Au p'ti bistro boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Bayonne. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in France!

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